Young@Heart ****

Stephen Walker's documentary, "Young @ Heart," introduces the Young at Heart Chorus of Northampton, Massachusetts, composed of senior citizens (average age 80) who rehearse weekly or more and perform nationally and internationally. Under the direction of Bob Climan, the chorus' repertoire has evolved from standards and show tunes 25 years ago to classic and contemporary rock.

Walker follows the group from first rehearsals of the new songs for this year's show through to its first triumphant show. Along the way we visit a few members at home, including a sprightly 92 year old, and get to know them. Some do not make it through to the end of the film. At their advanced age, of course, death is always around, and Walker does not flinch from this reality.

The singers and their lives are fascinating, but it's the music that gives the story its power. Even though the songs are punk or rock, Climan has chosen his songs well. Songs that you may think you know attain greater clarity when you see them performed with such attention and concentration.

As Andrew Lloyd Webber tells his singers: "It's words, words, words." The song is saying something, and you can't get it without the words. Long may they sing, and long may we listen.

Rated PG. 107 minutes. Stephen Walker - Director, Sally George - Producer, Ed Marritz - Cinematographer. Distributed by Fox Searchlight Pictures.